The University of Amsterdam and SurfPill have launched a year-long research project to test whether a floating surf platform with built-in filtration can improve water quality in stagnant sections of the city’s canals. The prototype featuring a YourWave stationary wave pool is planned for construction in Amsterdam-Noord, pending permit approval.
The study is led by Dr. Petra Visser and Dr. Arie Vonk of the Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics. It focuses on localized interventions aimed at reducing bacterial concentrations in urban waterways. Researchers will track variables including E. coli levels, clarity, oxygen content, blue-green algae, metal concentrations and biodiversity. Measurements will be taken at varying distances from the installation and compared to pre-installation and control sites.
“In urban waters, multiple factors affect quality, but low-flow zones stand out due to how quickly bacteria levels rise,” said Petra Visser. “Together with SurfPill, we are investigating whether interventions such as filtration, aeration, and circulation can locally disrupt these conditions. For the university, this is valuable because cities worldwide are seeking new ways to improve water quality. With this project, we aim to show how science can help create livable, healthy urban environments where people can safely recreate.”
Urban Water Conditions and Project Motivation
The project builds on lessons from the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, where efforts to make the Seine swimmable were challenged by rainfall-driven spikes in bacteria. The situation brought attention to the Swimmable Cities initiative, now supported by nearly 200 organizations across 100 cities. Amsterdam, like other participating cities, faces recurring problems in shallow or enclosed canal zones. These areas see frequent warnings from public health officials due to unsafe bacterial levels.
SurfPill was developed as a potential response to those conditions. Its design integrates three known water treatment techniques: filtration to remove suspended solids, aeration to increase oxygen, and circulation to prevent stagnation. The unit operates as a floating surf platform. It was proposed through a citizen participation process and is intended for public canals.
“As soon as we receive the permit, we will build a 15-by-30-meter platform,” said SurfPill founder Frederik van Os. “The constant wave motion will keep city water moving and draw it through filters before releasing it back into the canal. We’ll also add aquatic plants around the structure for additional purification. These plants absorb nutrients. The goal is to make the surrounding water safer and clearer, so residents can swim in their own canals and children can play safely.”
Data Collection and Next Steps
The study will be conducted by students and researchers at the UvA’s Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics. The team expects the first results after one full season of operation. The timeline is intended to account for seasonal and weather-related effects on water quality. Master’s students may participate in the measurement and analysis process.
The permit application for Amsterdam-Noord remains under review.
